Within Marion Reservoir, Marion Cove operates as a US Army Corps of Engineers campground that accommodates multiple access methods. Campers can drive directly to some sites, while others require a short walk from parking areas. The campground sits along the reservoir shoreline with forested terrain providing natural boundaries between camping areas.
Sites range from RV-accessible spots with water hookups for rigs up to 45 feet to tent-only areas scattered through the trees. Lady Phyre notes that "sites #5 & #6 are right next to each other and would make a great area for larger groups." Several sites feature covered picnic tables, and all include fire rings with firewood available for purchase nearby.
The reservoir draws boaters and anglers, with a boat launch providing water access for campers with watercraft. Swimming is permitted in the reservoir, though campers should expect company during peak periods. One reviewer found the area "really caters to RVers and boaters," indicating higher activity levels around the water access points. Cell service reaches the campground, and pets are welcome throughout the area.
Reservations can be made up to four days in advance through Recreation.gov, with sites costing $10 per night. Self-registration is available for walk-in campers when reservation sites remain open.
Description
Overview
Marion Cove Campground is located just north of the Marion Reservoir Dam right past the Project Office. Its a primitive tent camping campground w/o electrical hookups.
Recreation
Popular activities include camping, boating, and fishing Anglers will find an abundance of channel catfish, walleye, white bass and wipers, and a boat ramp is provided at the campground for convenient access to the lake.
Facilities
Marion Cove Campground offers 17 non electric camping sites to our visitors. sites 1-6 all have a picnic shelter along with picnic tables and fire ring. while sites 7-17 offer only a firepit. Marion cove also has a two lane boat launch near by with a community water hydrant located just off of site one.
Natural Features
Completed in 1968, Marion Reservoir encompasses 6,200 acres of water surrounded by 6,000 acres of public lands. The surrounding expanse of forest provides visitors with endless recreational activities, set against the backdrop of the sparkling lake.
Nearby Attractions
The nearby communities of Hillsboro and Marion offer additional tourist attractions. Both cities have a nationally recognized Art and Crafts show, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundMarion Cove is located in Kansas
Coordinates
38.380691 N
97.075302 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/18/26
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 12/6/25
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/18/26
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 12/6/25
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 57 min from Wichita, KS
- 1 hr 3 min from Manhattan, KS
- 1 hr 25 min from Topeka, KS
- 1 hr 43 min from Lawrence, KS









